Nandini, could you briefly tell us about your current role and how long you’ve been with hubergroup?

Nandini Chowdhury: I have been with hubergroup for a year now and currently work as the General Manager – Technology for UV-Offset, Flexo, and Screen Inks. My role is dynamic and multifaceted, requiring close collaboration with our global technology teams, particularly in Germany. I work closely with the German R&D team to drive technology diversification and consolidation, ensuring the development of innovative, market-relevant solutions tailored to customer needs.

How did your journey in the printing and packaging industry begin? What drew you to this field?

Nandini Chowdhury: Given my background in Polymer Science, I was naturally drawn to the print and packaging industry - where materials science intersects with creativity. The impact of inks, coatings, and substrates on branding and consumer perception fascinated me, making this field an ideal space to apply my technical expertise. It has given me the opportunity to drive innovation and contribute to the development of more sustainable packaging solutions.

What has been the most important skill you’ve developed in your career?

Nandini Chowdhury: Learning to be a good listener. It may sound simple, but truly listening to customers has helped me understand even the smallest requirements—details that are essential for designing solutions that are truly fit for purpose. Additionally, the attitude of “leading from the front” has played a big part in helping me grow into leadership roles.

“Driven by a thoughtful blend of customer insights and technical expertise, we are constantly innovating to create products that align with market demands.”

Nandini Chowdhury, General Manager – Technology for UV-Offset, Flexo and Screen Inks, hubergroup India

Are there any exciting updates or plans at hubergroup India you can share with us?

Nandini Chowdhury: Absolutely. Driven by a thoughtful blend of customer insights and technical expertise, we are constantly innovating to create products that align with market demands. Looking ahead, our focus remains on sustainability and safety – key values that shape our long-term vision and strengthen our partnerships with printers.

Could you describe a typical day in your role for young professionals considering a career in this field?

Nandini Chowdhury: My day starts with planning—I create a checklist of priorities and stick to it as much as possible. That said, flexibility is crucial in this industry. Unexpected production or market demands can arise at any time, so staying agile is essential. I also emphasize timeliness, delivering on schedule is critical because competition is always just around the corner.

What challenges have you faced as a woman in a male-dominated industry, and how can the sector improve in this regard?

Nandini Chowdhury: Initially, during press trials and shop floor interactions, I encountered gender-based communication gaps and limited access to information. Late working hours were also a challenge. But with persistence and consistent engagement, I gradually gained acceptance and trust.

To make the industry more inclusive, we need to normalise women’s presence in technical roles—whether that’s R&D, product development, or press trials. Creating equal opportunities, fostering open dialogue about unconscious bias, and ensuring supportive environments can go a long way in attracting and retaining talented women in the industry.

Sustainability is a major focus area for hubergroup. In India, waste management continues to be a pressing challenge. In your view, how can more women be empowered to take on visible, decision-making roles in driving sustainable practices—especially in technical and manufacturing sectors?

Nandini Chowdhury: Sustainability is not just about products and processes - it's also about people. We need more women to become a part of this conversation, especially in areas like R&D, regulatory, and production, where critical decisions on materials, efficiency, and environmental impact are made.

Encouraging more women to step into these roles will bring diverse perspectives, which are vital when tackling complex issues like waste management or designing truly circular packaging solutions. To drive meaningful change the industry must take proactive steps - through inclusive hiring, mentorship programs, and workplace policies - to create pathways and empower women to lead sustainability efforts from within

Thank you for sharing your insights—and for the inspiring work you do every day to move our industry forward.